Generic Levofloxacin

Common Use
Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is effective against respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, sinusitis, prostatitis, and more serious conditions like anthrax and plague. It works by interfering with bacterial DNA replication, leading to bacterial cell death.

Dosage and Direction
Levofloxacin is available in oral tablets, solution, and intravenous forms. The usual dose is 250–750 mg once daily, depending on the type and severity of the infection. It should be taken with plenty of water, and antacids or supplements containing magnesium, aluminum, calcium, or iron should be avoided within two hours of dosing.

Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, epilepsy, heart rhythm problems, diabetes, or a history of tendon disorders. Levofloxacin can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so avoid prolonged sun exposure. Dizziness or movement disturbances may occur, especially in older adults.

Contraindications
Levofloxacin is contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity to fluoroquinolones, epilepsy, severe heart arrhythmias, or tendon injuries. It is not recommended for children under 18, pregnant or breastfeeding women unless necessary.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, headache, insomnia, and dizziness. Rare but serious side effects may include tendon rupture, nerve damage, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and mood changes such as anxiety or depression. Allergic reactions may also occur.

Drug Interaction
Levofloxacin can interact with blood thinners (e.g. warfarin), corticosteroids (increasing tendon rupture risk), NSAIDs (raising seizure risk), and drugs that prolong the QT interval. Its absorption is reduced by antacids and supplements containing metal ions (iron, zinc, etc.).

Missed Dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.

Overdose
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, dizziness, confusion, or seizures. Seek emergency medical attention in case of suspected overdose.

Storage
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and in the original packaging.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)